After being abandoned in a Glendive dumpster, Sluggy was adopted by LIFTT’s Jen Hawkinson. He has recently been selected as Mr. February for an upcoming 2027 pet calendar.
Sometimes the most inspiring stories begin in the most unlikely places.
Not long ago, a small, abandoned cat was discovered in a dumpster along with his two siblings. He was nurtured by a wonderful citizen of Glendive until he was healthy enough, and then adopted by Jen Hawkinson, LIFTT’s Regional Manager, and her family. Alone, vulnerable, and in need of care, the little feline faced an uncertain future. Rather than looking the other way, Jen and her family opened their hearts and their home.
The family brought him to a veterinarian, ensured he received the medical attention he needed, and patiently supported his recovery. With proper care, good nutrition, and plenty of love, the little cat began to thrive.
Today, Sluggy, as he was named, is known by many as one of the happiest cats in Glendive.
Sluggy’s remarkable journey recently reached a new milestone when he won a contest and earned the title of Mr. February in an upcoming 2027 calendar. What began as a story of abandonment became a story of resilience, love, and unexpected success.
Beyond the smiles this charming feline brings to his family and neighbors, his story reminds us of something important. Pets often provide companionship, comfort, and purpose, particularly for older adults and individuals living with disabilities. Studies have shown that pets can help reduce feelings of loneliness, encourage physical activity, lower stress levels, and improve overall emotional well-being.
For many people, a pet is much more than an animal. A pet can be a trusted companion, a source of daily routine, and a reason to smile even during difficult times.
The story of Glendive’s newest feline celebrity reminds us that kindness matters. A simple act of compassion changed the course of one small life, and in return, that life has brought joy to countless others.
Sometimes, all it takes is a second chance to create a success story.
Congratulations to Sluggy a.ka. Mr. February and to the Hawkinson family for demonstrating how love, commitment, and compassion can transform a life.
Inspired by Mr. February’s journey? If you are an older adult or an individual living with a disability and are interested in the companionship of a pet, LIFTT’s Independent Living Specialists may be able to help. Our staff can assist you in connecting with local animal shelters, rescue organizations, veterinary resources, and other community partners that can help you find a pet that matches your lifestyle and needs. While pet ownership is a personal decision that requires careful consideration, the rewards of companionship, comfort, and unconditional love can be life-changing. Sometimes a new friend is waiting just around the corner, ready to bring joy, purpose, and a few extra smiles into your life. To contact an IL specialist, give us a call at (406) 259-5181 (Billings), (406) 948-8500 (Glendive), or send us a message through our Contact Page
About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides aging and disabled members of the community with programs, services, resources and advocacy that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app for your Apple device.
Our Vision: Empowering aging individuals and people with disabilities to LIFTT themselves above the barriers of life.
Our Mission: Living Independently for Today and Tomorrow’s (LIFTT’s) mission as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit Center for Independent Living serving Southeastern Montana is to empower aging individuals and people with disabilities to live independently through education, support, and opportunities.